A drain survey is the comprehensive inspection of a drainage system using CCTV technology. It is a process whereby a camera, particularly designed for such a task, is inserted into the drainage pipes, allowing drainage specialists to view and examine the system’s condition for possible problems.
Why is a CCTV Drain Survey Important?
Drain surveys are important for various reasons:
- Drain purchase inspection: these are usually done before the house is purchased. This helps the potential buyer to understand the current condition of the drainage system in place and the repair work required in advance of the sale. The sellers may need to deal with certain aspects of the sale before it is completed.
- Persistent Drainage Problem: If you experience chronic drainage problems that could not be diagnosed by the naked eye or basic diagnostic equipment, a CCTV drain survey gives you a closer look at the problem and affirms its root cause.
- Preventive Maintenance: Regular drain surveys can detect minor issues in advance so you do not experience a surprise drainage failure that will cost you a lot of money for urgent repairs.
When Should You Consider a Drain Survey?
In case you suffer recurring drainage problems, or a plunging and rodding approach fails to correct the situation, it would be advisable to contact a professional drainage company that will carry out a CCTV survey. Expertly equipped drainage companies apply modern techniques in the swift detection of a problem and also give a complete repair plan plus a cost quotation.
CCTV Drain Survey Necessary Equipment
The equipment used in a CCTV drain survey is quite advanced and has to be handled by professionals. Some of the critical tools that are used in a survey are as follows:
- Waterproof Cameras: They are high-resolution cameras that can capture clear images of the drainage system, sending footage to engineers for real-time analysis.
- Access Rods: Flexible rods used to guide the camera through tight corners and turns in the drainage system.
- Crawler Units: Remote-controlled devices equipped with cameras that can inspect sewer pipes, even when blockages or obstructions are present.
- Sonar Equipment: Used when visual inspection is not sufficient, sonar devices provide acoustic profiling of pipes, helping identify hidden structural issues.
How Does the Drain Survey Process Work?
- Initial Contact: Reach out to a professional drainage company to schedule an inspection.
- Cursory Inspection: The engineer will carry out a preliminary survey to determine whether or not to conduct the CCTV survey.
- Execution of CCTV Survey: The specialist will then deploy CCTV camera equipment and start the detailed survey if necessary.
- Analysis & Reporting: After completing the survey, the drainage specialist will analyze the footage and generate a detailed report on the issues detected.
- Repair Recommendations: The engineer will recommend the best course of action and provide an estimate for repair based on the findings.
Common Drainage Problems Identified
A CCTV drain survey can reveal a variety of drainage issues, including:
- Blockages: Accumulation of debris or waste obstructing water flow.
- Animal Intrusion: Rodents or other animals find their way into the drainage system.
- Corrosion: Pipe deterioration due to age or chemical exposure.
- Collapsed Drains: Structural failure that can lead to partial or complete blockage.
- Tree Root Intrusion: Roots of trees growing into the drainage pipes cause cracks or blockage.
What to Do If You Have a Severe Drainage Problem
In case you face a severe drainage problem, do not delay acting to prevent more damage and offensive smells. The following is what you should do:
- Contact a Professional: Contact a professional drainage company in your location.
- Schedule an Inspection: Let the experts determine if a CCTV survey is necessary.
- Detailed Report: Once the survey is done, you will be provided with a detailed report indicating problems and proposed solutions.
- Plan Repairs: Based on the problem’s severity, repairs can be scheduled on the spot or scheduled for later.
How to Find the Best Drainage Expert
Drainage professionals who provide quality service can be found in their excellent ratings with customers, appropriate certifications, and excellent track records. Using online search engines or business directories can help you find trusted professionals.
A CCTV drain survey is a diagnostic tool that helps to identify the cause of drainage problems and saves money in the form of costly repairs. Whether you are buying a property or have had persistent drainage problems, an investment in a professional survey will pay for itself both in terms of time and money saved in the long run.